Philadelphia Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher said the NHL made the prudent decision to pause the season.
"This is bigger than hockey, bigger than sports in general," Fletcher said in Tampa, where the Flyers were scheduled to play the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday. "I think the Commissioner and the Board of Governors made the only rational decision they could make at this point and time. Hopefully, it's just a pause and the situation gets better and we have a chance to come back and play some meaningful hockey."
Columbus Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno said, "While I'm disappointed we're not playing right now, nothing is more important than everyone's health and safety. The League did the right thing today. Thanks to the 5th Line for your unbelievable support. We have the best fans in the world and we'll get through this together."
New Jersey Devils managing partner Josh Harris was one of many who said the coronavirus pandemic goes beyond hockey.
"In this time of need, we need to band together and take care of people," Harris said. "Our teams, our cities and the leagues in which we operate are a family, and we are committed to looking out for one another."
All NHL practices and team meetings have been put on pause indefinitely.
"The Capitals will continue to closely monitor the health of players, coaches and hockey operations staff," the Washington Capitals said in a statement. "Those who exhibit illness symptoms will be evaluated by medical personnel and tested when necessary, per CDC guidelines. In addition, the Capitals and Monumental Sports & Entertainment will continue to monitor the situation with an emphasis on the health and safety of our fans, employees and players."
Teams are also in the process of communicating to their fans and ticket holders about the next steps, including how they will provide updates for the games affected by the pause to the season.
"This is obviously a tough and disappointing decision for everyone, but one that is appropriate to prioritize the safety of our fans, partners, players and staff," the Lightning said in a statement. "The team will continue to work in consultation with the NHL, as well as with city and county representatives, to monitor the situation moving forward. The Lightning will be making additional announcements, including regarding ticket information, as details become available."
The Montreal Canadiens said in a statement, "The Canadiens support this decision, which is focused on controlling the risk of spreading the coronavirus (COVID-19). We take the health and safety of our fans very seriously, and the same standard applies to our players, team personnel and employees. Ticket holders are invited to keep their tickets. They will be contacted at a later date with further details as events unfold."
